A light plane has crashed off the coast near Nambucca Heads, New South Wales, prompting emergency services to respond quickly to the scene. The incident occurred around 4 PM on Saturday, with reports indicating the plane went down in the waters of the Gaagal Wanggaan National Park along the Coffs Coast.
According to witnesses, they saw the light aircraft descend out to sea. One witness told police he observed the plane going down, leading to immediate concern for those on board. Shortly after the call to emergency services, wreckage from the aircraft was located approximately 1.5 kilometers southeast of Nambucca Heads.
Rescue efforts were rapidly mobilized, involving the water police and the Westpac Rescue helicopter along with other marine-based emergency teams. The situation is grave, as it has been reported by several sources, including 7NEWS, indicating fears of fatalities among the two individuals who were onboard the aircraft.
NSW Police have confirmed the sighting of the wreckage and are currently assessing the situation. "A plane wreckage was shortly after sighted in the water approximately 1.5 kilometers off the coastline," said a spokesperson.
This tragic event highlights the risks associated with light aviation and raises concerns about what could have led to such an incident. At this point, the condition of the occupants remains unknown, and authorities are working diligently to determine the cause of the crash.
Witnesses’ accounts offer some insight, yet significant questions linger as emergency teams continue their work. Notably, one witness remarked, "A witness told police he saw a light plane go down out to sea near Nambucca Heads." This account, alongside the video footage of the rescue efforts, has captured local community attention.
Given the location of the crash within the national park, officials are also considering environmental impacts, as marine and coastal rescue operations are complex under such conditions.
Authorities are urging anyone with potentially useful information to come forward, helping to piece together the events leading up to the crash. Community members and family of those on board have expressed deep concern, rallying together as they await news of the rescue operation's outcome.
Local officials and emergency response teams partially closed access to the affected areas, ensuring safety as investigations continue. The search and rescue operation will maintain vigilance as divers and teams inspect the wreckage.
At this stage, as responses are coordinated and evaluated, the heart of the NSW Mid North Coast mourns the potential loss of life, hoping for the best possible outcome for the missing individuals.